The vision for the Civilian Emergency Response Network began in 1998. While I was building my home near Saratoga Lake, New York, a series of F3 tornadoes devastated the region. From a nearby hilltop, I watched as neighborhoods were erased across a twenty-five mile path of destruction.

The scene mirrored a tragedy from my childhood when a flash flood destroyed my hometown. That disaster claimed the life of my close friend, Kevin D., who was only fifteen. A bridge had washed out in the heavy fog, and by the time it was visible, it was too late. These experiences revealed a critical need for organized community action. I realized that while people have a profound desire to help, they require a structured way to connect their resources with those in need. CERNetwork was created to bridge that gap.

Today, our mission is to provide a dedicated clearinghouse that connects skilled volunteers and their assets directly to the people and organizations who need them most. We believe in the power of neighbor helping neighbor, using real world tools and specialized skills to deliver immediate relief without the wait. Thank you for recognizing the importance of this work. We invite you to join us in this mission by lending a hand, sharing your skills, or registering your equipment to ensure that no community has to face the aftermath of a disaster alone.

Steven Conklin, Founder